Kevin Costner’s ‘Horizon: Chapter 1’ Now Available to Stream on Netflix
The Saga of Kevin Costner’s ‘Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1’ Continues Off-Screen
Kevin Costner’s Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1 has faced more drama behind the scenes than within its slow-paced and meandering storyline. After a disappointing box office performance, the film was released exclusively on Max, only to be pulled relatively quickly. Now, Horizon – Chapter 1 has unexpectedly landed on Netflix, exposing the divisive first installment of Costner’s planned four-part Western saga to a new, global audience.
Set during a turbulent era in the American West, Horizon: An American Saga was intended to be a sweeping epic told across four movies. Costner, known for his iconic roles in Western classics like Dances with Wolves and Open Range, embarked on this ambitious passion project with high hopes. However, modern audiences have grown less inclined to sit through lengthy, traditional Westerns, which contributed to the first film’s disappointing theatrical run.
Despite these setbacks, Costner remains determined to see the quadrilogy through to completion. Having invested roughly $100 million into the project and with production on the third film currently stalled due to funding issues, a strong reception on Netflix might be the lifeline the saga needs to continue.
A Decade-Long Passion Project Faces Harsh Reality
Costner reportedly spent over ten years developing Horizon. While initially balancing his role as John Dutton on Taylor Sheridan’s Yellowstone, he eventually left the Paramount series to dedicate himself fully to this project. The film’s reported budget far exceeded its $38.2 million box office gross, making it difficult to label the release a success.
The lukewarm response led to the delay of the second chapter, which missed its original August release date and remains without a new premiere date. Warner Bros. Discovery, which distributed but did not finance the film, seemingly adopted a strategy to build interest through streaming first. The idea was to attract a larger audience on Netflix before launching Chapter 2 in theaters, hoping fans would be eager to see the saga continue on the big screen. However, mixed reviews for Chapter 1 cast doubt on whether this approach will pay off.
While Netflix’s massive platform might increase the film’s visibility, it’s unclear if that will translate into renewed enthusiasm or better critical reception. Still, the move has at least succeeded in putting the film in front of more eyes.
Costner’s Commitment: Creative Vision vs. Commercial Reality
Kevin Costner appears steadfast in his mission to tell the full story he envisioned, even if it takes longer than expected. In an industry often driven by profits and box office numbers, Costner’s dedication to creative integrity over financial success is either admirable or reckless—depending on one’s perspective. Ultimately, only time will tell if Horizon can overcome its rocky start and fulfill its ambitious promise.
